Springtime is one of the most rewarding times of the year. A look outside the window shows bright blue skies for what seems like the first time in ages. And, when those flowers start popping through, we know it’s safe to actually put away the winter coats (but that snowblower may still be in handy some years). As you get ready for spring and make your list of must-do projects, we would like to offer a few tips to help you avoid complications with your home insurance plan. Yes, your spring projects can impact your home insurance. Here’s a look.
Don’t Forget to Tell Us About That New Garage
Many people in the area tackle garage projects first. Spring is perfect for this because you can begin getting footings placed. However, give your insurance agent a call before you get that project underway. Here’s why. A large garage on your property could be limited in the amount of coverage it has. We may need to update your policy to reflect the value of the garage on your policy. Because Coverage B – Other Structures only provides you with ten percent of Coverage A – Dwelling’s value, you may need a bit more.
Do Let Us Know About the Changes to the Deck
Your home’s deck is an important gathering place come summertime, but for right now, you may be thinking of expanding it. Perhaps you hope to wrap it around the pool. When you make substantial changes to it, again, let us know. We need to add that structure to your policy and be sure you have ample coverage.
Expand Your Pool After You Talk to Us
Here’s another key concern we often run into with our clients. They need to install a new pool, or they plan to expand their current pool. Either way, you are adding risk to your home. That can be a concern. We need to be sure your policy reflects that you have a pool. There are a few other projects that can warrant this to including:
- Outdoor Kitchens
- Any type of fire pit
- Grilling areas
Our goal is to ensure you have enough liability insurance to protect against common risks that occur at these locations such as burns to visitors or slips and falls by neighborhoods. Our team is happy to offer you advice and guidance on minimizing these risks, too.
Let Us Know About Your Fencing
Are you taking down the fence? That could mean you are exposing your home to more risk. Are you installing a new one? Our goal is to cover the value of the fence. However, sometimes these projects can help to reduce your overall premium cost. If the fence enhances security to your home, it may help keep costs lower.
Don’t Worry About the Little Stuff
While we are always happy to talk to you, you don’t have to worry about letting us know about every detail of your project. Remember, your policy covers just the structures on your property. It does not cover the land. Your policy does not cover these types of investments (and that means you don’t have to let us know about them):
- Raised garden beds
- Plants
- Trees
- Most types of hardscaping such as retaining walls and rocks
- Landscape beds
We welcome you to spring and hope you are ready to enjoy a summer full of fun. When you let Wolfgram Insurance know what your plans are, we can make sure you are cover all of the way.
